TECHNOLOGY FOR SENIORS

A new study finds a link between environmental air pollution and occurrences of both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Tiny air pollution particles make their way up to the brainstems of young people where they accumulate, new research published in the journal Environmental Research showed. These same nanoparticles have been “intimately associated” with the molecular damage […]

“NO!” It’s the favorite word of toddlers and the favorite word of most seniors who need regular care. And that – as much as anything – is one of the significant flashpoints between caregivers and care recipients. Too many people see superficial similarities between the behavior of a child and an older adult, and instinctively […]

From McKnight’s, a great example of the benefits of music therapy. Group music therapy in an eldercare setting reduces agitation and may be a useful tool in managing aggressive behavior, according to a new study. […] Compared with residents who did not receive music therapy, the 30 residents who participated in the study exhibited fewer […]

Even as parts of the US start to relax stay-at-home orders, our senior loved ones will still be under very restrictive rules for their own safety. We may not be able to visit with them right now, but that doesn’t mean we can’t send along some things to help keep their minds sharp during these […]

We’re well into October, and before you know it, Christmas will be here. Covid will be changing how many of us celebrate the holidays, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still get some presents for our loved ones. Here are some suggestions for your elder relatives. Digital Picture Frame. A great way to keep up […]

We’re living through the era of social distancing, but that means remote social contact is more important than ever. It can be particularly difficult for seniors to get over the technological hurdles that come with modern teleconferencing. But there are steps you can take to make sure your senior loved ones can stay in touch […]

An interesting look at how senior housing & facilities may have to change going forward. For instance, visitation rooms with direct access to the outside could allow family members to visit loved ones without walking through the community, he said. Hotel rooms could even be added to allow staff members to live on-site without going […]

The Covid lockdowns have taken a toll on all of us. But it’s particularly hard on seniors. Residential facilities have been almost totally locked down for months, with no visitors allowed in, or excursions out. Independent seniors have had to take added precautions KPRC in Houston has some more on the physical toll this isolation […]

A potential bombshell study, if confirmed. “Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison now investigated a stem cell treatment in a mouse model of Parkinson’s disease and found that neurons derived from stem cells can integrate into the correct regions of the brain, connect with native neurons, and restore motor functions.[…] Six months after transplantation, grafts […]

One of the most difficult things some Alzheimer’s sufferers have to deal with is the uncertainty. Unlike many other conditions, there is no black & white test to tell if you have Alzheimer’s. The diagnosis has always been dependent on a doctor interpreting a wide range of symptoms, many of which are also associated with […]

Even as parts of the US start to relax stay-at-home orders, our senior loved ones will still be under very restrictive rules for their own safety. We may not be able to visit with them right now, but that doesn’t mean we can’t send along some things to help keep their minds sharp during these […]

We’re officially into autumn, and that means it’s time to start preparing for the cold. And that includes making sure your senior loved ones are also ready. Covid precautions mean much of this may have to be done remotely, or via aides or orderlies, but the earlier you start, the better. Clothing check. Do they […]

Eventually, most of our elder loved ones will get to a point at which they can no longer live independently. In many cases, we caregivers will offer to take that loved one into our home. The transition can be difficult emotionally, even before you consider what it’s like to live with someone who is in […]

Inspired by a similar town in the Netherlands, France opens up their first experimental “Alzheimer’s Village.” The small village, like most in France, has a cafe-restaurant, a hairdresser, a superette and a library Neighbours have a cup of coffee and a chat on the terrace, or meet up in the park or at the gym […]

Alzheimer’s patients who are exposed to pets such as dogs display more positive behavior, according to a study carried out on an Alzheimer’s special care unit. Additional studies show that pets can provide companionship, reduce isolation, and ease anxiety. Modern technology has now embraced the benefits that pets offer Alzheimer’s patients. These studies have resulted […]

From the journal of Biotech & Genetic Engineering: The results of an open-label pilot study have found that treating patients with an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) using the Parkinson’s disease drug, levodopa, stabilized their disease and improved vision. The study demonstrated that oral levodopa therapy was safe and well-tolerated, and reduced the […]